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Recent advances in hemochromatosis: a 2015 update

A summary of proceedings of the 2014 conference held under the auspices of Hemochromatosis Australia

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Abstract

This review focuses on iron metabolism, the genetics of hemochromatosis, current treatment protocols and various screening methods. Even though the most common form of hereditary hemochromatosis, C282Y gene mutations in the HFE gene, has been extensively studied, novel mutations in both HFE and non-HFE genes have been implicated in this disease. These have important implications for the Asia-Pacific region. In overload, deposition of iron in various body tissues leads to toxic damage. Patients commonly present with non-specific symptoms of malaise and lethargy. Biochemical, imaging and genetic testing can be carried out to confirm diagnosis. Venesection forms the mainstay of treatment and at present cascade screening of affected families is recommended over population-level screening.

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Compliance with ethical requirements and Conflict of interest

This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects. Dilum Ekanayake, Clinton Roddick and Lawrie Powell have nothing to disclose regarding conflicts of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre for the Advancement of Clinical Research, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, 4029, Australia

    Lawrie W. Powell

  2. School of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4029, Australia

    Dilum Ekanayake, Clinton Roddick & Lawrie W. Powell

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  1. Dilum Ekanayake
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  2. Clinton Roddick
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Correspondence to Lawrie W. Powell.

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Ekanayake, D., Roddick, C. & Powell, L.W. Recent advances in hemochromatosis: a 2015 update. Hepatol Int 9, 174–182 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12072-015-9608-2

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